Tuesday, July 05, 2011
 
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Mount Pulaski churches join in celebration of town's heritage

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[July 05, 2011]  MOUNT PULASKI -- Vinegar Hill was coming alive Sunday as the noon hour approached. Vendors were setting up, exhibitors were taking the tarps off their wares, and all around the square old-time gospel songs could be heard from the Alumni Tent.

InsuranceThe community service at Mount Pulaski 175th anniversary celebration was one of the highlights of the entire weekend -- bringing together members of all five local churches, their pastors, their choir and band members, and a congregation of over 400 men, women and children.

Young and old were gathered in the 100-by-60-foot air-conditioned tent to hear Pastor Mark Weber of First Christian make introductory remarks with a "Statement of Purpose," the Rev. Jeffrey Laible of St. Thomas Aquinas giving the invocation, Pastor Rachel Stockle of United Methodist reading a passage from Scripture and Pastor Chris Decker of Zion Lutheran giving a "Prayer of Dedication." Pastor David Hofer of St. John's provided the closing prayer and benediction.

Claus Tanner, former longtime Mount Pulaski Grade and High School instrumental and vocal instructor, led his wonderfully prepared community choir and band with "God of Our Fathers," "Amazing Grace" and "Battle Hymn of the Republic." Each rendition received an enthusiastic applause, with a rousing standing ovation at the end of the service.

On Sunday, this wonderful ecumenical gathering of 25-30 percent of Mount Pulaskians under one roof was no doubt further indication of the impact that the founding town's fathers had with their welcoming and embracing of all faiths into the newly formed community 175 years ago.

A delicious potluck was enjoyed in the other air-conditioned tent on the south side of the square, with golf-cart shuttle service being provided for the elderly.

[Text from file submitted by Phil Bertoni; LDN]

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